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October is Learning Disabilities Awareness Month. Perhaps your life has been touched in some way by a learning disability. If so, there are some amazing resources for you, whether a parent, a student, or educator. LD Online is one of them, which provides guides for educators and parents. One I would like to highlight is an article outlining very useful information for parents of students with learning disabilities and how to help them experience success. It is based on longitudinal research and identifies 6 success attributes that really make a difference and are more important than IQ and grades: Continue reading →

Yesterday, the U.S. Senate passed The Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act. This is a victory for many individuals with disabilities. My friend and her daughter who has Down Syndrome, have been instrumental in advocating for the passing of this Act over an 8-year long crusade. You can learn more about their journey on her blog, The Sassy Southern Gal.

Individuals with disabilities dream about the future just as anyone does, but current law allows individuals with disabilities to only have $2,000 or less in order to receive government supports such as Medicaid and Social Security Income. This discourages individuals with disabilities to become self-determined, to dream, and to plan for the future. However, the ABLE Act now allows for individuals with disabilities to set up state-based private savings accounts, which are tax-free, to pay for disability-related expenses. Being able to save for the costs of resources such as education; health costs; employment support; transportation; and housing without losing government support means that individuals with disabilities can experience more independence and a better quality of life. You can learn more about the ABLE Act at https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/113/hr647 . It is anticipated that the President will sign this Act in January, 2015.

Join with me in celebrating another milestone for individuals with disabilities! Thank the Congressmen, Senators, and individuals who have made this a reality!

I am a Sassy Southern Gal living in the Midwest. Come along on my journey and we'll share some stories and fun. You'll soon see why I am a SassySouthernGal! Disclaimer: “The content in this posting are my own personal opinions and not the opinions or policies of the National Down Syndrome Society”. !